Expert: D. Norkus - 7/6/2006

Question
Hello I am 25 years old and thinking about a career as an airline pilot. I have my college degree and have been pursuing a career in medicine and have actually been accepted to chiropractic school, but my real dream is to become an airline pilot. Do you think it is too late for me to begin flight school to become an airline pilot and also what are the realistic chances that a person like myself with limited flight experience thusfar can actually make it to become an airline pilot w/ a major airline some day. thank you for your time. eddie stish

Answer
Eddie

No, 25 is certainly not too old to make such a career change. In fact, it's quite young. If you were hired on at a regional by age 28 you would still have 32 years to make your goal. I have known people who made the career change at age 43.

That said, I cannot underestimate the amount of investment, financial and otherwise, that will be required to do so. This business requires a lot of sacrifices, especially in the beginning in order to get to the end goal.  

So many people say they "dream of being an airline pilot", but their perception is not what is the lifestyle and actual day to day job entails. What you expect and the reality might not be the same! This is especially true for the pay that is much less than it has been in years past. (Starting regional pay is about $19K.)

You say you have limited flight experience. I suggest getting at least your PPL & instrument before deciding to commit a large sum of money to flight school. That way 1) You can be sure you like IFR flying 2)you will be able to fly for pleasure and be a better pilot by having your IFR ticket 3)you will be on your way to a career track by having them under your belt if you decide to push ahead. If you have outstanding debts from medical school, you can expect to tack on a minumum of another $40K or so to get the certificates and ratings you will need to get hired by a regional- not including flight time.

Please read my page about flight training and airline careers for more FAQs that you should educate yourself about:

http://www.geocities.com/av8trxx99/FAQ.html

There are many career related links and message boards (the best on the web) at bottom for aspiring airline pilots. There are also links for some pilot career & airline specific message boards where wishful pilots can post questions and get career advice. Jetcareers.com is a great resource and they even have a career changers forum.

If after reviewing this all and you want to know more, let me know.
Dottie